Greater Sydney Local Land Services

Drought conditions are easing in the north but persist throughout the region.

The Combined Drought Indicator (CDI) shows approximately 85% of the region is in one of the drought categories at the end of April.
The region received above average rainfall in April. Due to the severity and extent of the drought, long-term recovery remains challenging for producers.
Continued follow up rain will be needed to aid longer-term improvement in conditions.
Producers continue to monitor forecasts closely and implement drought management strategies as required for their farm enterprises for the remainder of autumn.
The NSW DPI continues to closely monitor conditions in this region.

Click on the scroll bar below the map to compare with previous months.

Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI)

Although there has been a slight decline in the plant greenness values since the last Update, levels remain above average across the region.

Click on the scroll bar below the map to compare with previous months.

Drought indicators responded to early April rainfall; however, the Rainfall Index has declined at the end of April.

Locations like Camden and Richmond have seen rapid increases in the Rainfall Index in April, due to a very high individual rainfall event (East Coast Low).
There has been strong pasture response (PGI), but underlying soil moisture remains below the 30th percentile, with much of the early April rainfall forming runoff. Continued rainfall will be needed to ensure the other indicators continue to improve.
Producers continue to monitor conditions closely in conjunction with forecasts and outlooks.
To access a Drought History chart for your Parish, visit the Seasonal Conditions Information Portal.